IoT

Back in the old days, fashionistas accessorized their outfits with stylish scarves, jewels, and handbags. Today, however, technology has become so ingrained in our lives that items such as smartwatches and exercise trackers are being worn by even the most fashion-forward celebrities. In an incredibly short amount time, wearable tech has risen in popularity thanks to its versatility, usability, and attractiveness. With sales predicted to grow 18.4 percent in 2016, it won’t be long before we’re all lacing up smart sneakers and wearing brain-boosting smart hats.

The Project:
A few weeks ago, I was put on perhaps the most fun internal project anyone has ever been given in the history of Yeti. The goal? Create an LED ticker that would flash emoji in response to people posting emoji-linked excuses on one of our apps, Chelsea Handler’s Gotta Go! If you’re unfamiliar with this app, the gist is that you can set an “excuse” consisting of texts or phone calls that your phone can pester you with later at a set time.

Many fear technology is dividing us. With a portal to millions of people resting in our pockets, some worry we’re less physically present than ever. Thankfully, the advancement of the Internet of Things (IoT) will unquestionably pull us back together, giving us more time to spend with family and less on household chores.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is in its early years, but it’s already begun to transform the way we live. It makes life easier — when you’re running late and in search of a client’s office, you can ask your car’s GPS to determine the quickest route. If you want to check on your kids upstairs, you can overhear them with a communication system built into your home. If you run out of detergent or shampoo, you push a button, and the product arrives at your doorstep in a few days.